Congressman Brad Ashford plans to introduce a bill expediting the citizenship process for spouses of first responders killed in the line of duty.
Ashford was joined Sunday by the attorney for Hector Orozco’s family to announce the legislation. Orozco is the widower of Omaha Police Officer Kerrie Orozco, who was shot and killed May 20th while serving a warrant. Currently, spouses of military personnel killed in the line of duty can apply for expedited citizenship.
Ashford says the measure, called the Kerrie Orozco Act, would provide certainty and stability to families.
"Everyone who wears a uniform protecting and securing us at home and abroad deserves our nation’s gratitude and compassion. Kerrie’s husband, Hector, came to me seeking help for their children. It was clear that this was something we could do in Congress."
Ashford says Hector Orozco has applied for a green card, but it could take five years before he becomes a U.S. citizen. Under the bill, an eligible undocumented immigrant who applies for a green card could immediately apply for citizenship upon receiving it.
Orozco came to the U.S. in 1999 and was granted a U-Visa in 2003.